How Is Diabetes Diagnosed?

Understanding how diabetes is diagnosed can empower you to better manage your health. Here are the key tests used to diagnose diabetes.

Common Diagnostic Tests

• Fasting Plasma Glucose Test (FPG): This test measures your blood sugar after an overnight fast. A result higher than 126 mg/dL on two different occasions typically indicates diabetes.
• Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT): This test involves drinking a sugary drink and having your blood sugar levels checked several times over a few hours. A reading over 200 mg/dL after two hours suggests diabetes.
• Hemoglobin A1C Test: Shows your average blood glucose level over the past three months. An A1C level of 6.5% or higher on two separate occasions means you have diabetes.
• Random Plasma Glucose Test: Measures your blood sugar at any time, without needing to fast. A result of 200 mg/dL or higher suggests diabetes, especially if accompanied by symptoms of the disease.

Diabetes diagnosis is crucial for managing the condition effectively. If you have risk factors or symptoms associated with diabetes, consider discussing these tests with your doctor.